THE TIME FOR FISHING. 119 



compass, is of less consequence than its power. It is ex, 

 ceedingly difficult to fish up stream when the wind is 

 blowing down ; but the splash of the falling line into thq 

 water (which it will do under these circumstances, in con- 

 sequence of the force necessary to be used) is less likely to 

 be noticed than in calm weather. When there is no 

 breeze, wait until the motion of the line has subsided, and 

 then draw the flies slowly towards you. Never allow the 

 flies to remain stationary. In sunny weather avoid letting 

 your shadow fall into the stream. Kather have the suo 

 in your eyes. 



The best time for fishing is in the forenoon, and later in 

 the evening, when the trout are on the " feed," which may 

 be easily seen by their rising ; make the most of your time, 

 as quickly, quietly, and steadily as you can, or else you 

 will mourn lost sport in a hitched, tangled, or broken 

 line. 



Do not be in a hurry to change your flies. If a fish 

 rises and refuses your fly, give him a short rest, and try 

 him again. Remember a trout cannot be enticed. If he 

 again refuses, proceed on your way. If a fish rises behind 

 you, do not "hark back;" he is looking for other prey 

 than yours. 



However tempting it may be to wade, and however well 

 prepared you may be, do not do so unnecessarily ; it only 

 disturbs the fish, spoils your neighbour's sport, and is not 

 conducive to the health of those who happen to have even 

 an iron constitution. 



Trout will seldom rise immediately after a flood, as they 

 have been too well fed. The water is best after sufficient 

 rain to just colour it. 



Fishing at night, or in dull weather, the flies should be 



